The
brain can actually change its own structure and function, even
into old age. Understanding that the brain can heal itself and
that the brain is capable of dramatic change is arguably the most
important breakthrough in neuroscience since scientists first
sketched out the brain’s basic functions.
Neurons and
neural networks in the brain have the capacity to change their
connections and behaviour in response to new information, sensory
stimulation, development, damage, or dysfunction. Although neural
networks carry out specific functions, they retain the capacity
to deviate from their usual functions and to reorganize themselves.
In fact, for many years, it was considered dogma in the neurosciences
that certain functions were hard-wired in specific, localized
regions of the brain and that any incidents of brain change or
recovery were mere exceptions to the rule.
Neuroplasticity
not only gives hope to those with mental limitations, or what
was thought to be incurable brain damage, but expands our understanding
of the healthy brain and the resilience of human nature.
Therapy can
actually heal these disorders and correct the brain. Also, if
clients realize that they have the personal power to overcome
the intense dogma of being diagnosed with a psychological disorder
then they can self-heal and correct these areas of the brain through
retraining and encouragement from the therapist. Therapists must
then be educated on techniques that have been shown to prevent
and correct these psychological symptoms.
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